Kathleen Howard

Kathleen Robinson Howard was born June 24, 1934, in Graham, Kentucky, to Armedia Lonnis Drake and Virgil Robinson. Both of her parents preceded her in death. Kathleen’s family relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she was educated in the Indianapolis Public School system and went on to attend cosmetology and beauty school.

At an early age, Kathleen confessed Christ and was baptized under the guidance of the late Annie Mae Baynes and Caster Wooden, Jr. at the Fall Creek Parkway Church of Christ. She later placed her membership at the Kingsley Terrace Church of Christ under the leadership of the late G.P. Holt, Sr. and Elder Jesse Johnson, Sr.

A Life of Love and Family

Kathleen accepted an ice cream date with her future husband, Morris Howard, because he owned a car, while other young men were still riding bicycles. Morris and Kathleen married August 15, 1951. He enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Korean War. He completed his tour of duty four years later. Together, they would build a vibrant life that would span more than 75 years.

Their union added seven children: William Kenneth (deceased), Tina Louise, Morris Jr. (deceased), Delwin Allen, Desiree, Lisa Rene', and Shannon.

Her Work, Gifts, and Joys

Kathleen’s primary role was homemaker and loving mother. Her employment outside of the home included Western Electric, Fort Benjamin Harrison Finance Center, and domestic work. During school summer breaks, she would deliver telephone directories and work in local restaurants. She was industrious and resilient, always using the tools God had gifted her. Kathleen was warm and generous, forever committed to their seven children, immediate family, relatives, and friends.

Kathleen’s favorite pastime was baking fabulous homemade rolls like nobody’s business. She baked rolls for church dinners, donated dozens for good causes, gifted them to family and friends, and sold countless bags. Kathleen liked being thrifty before it became popular. She loved working in her yard, planting seasonal flowers, and pruning her garden. She enjoyed visiting and traveling when an opportunity would arise. Preparing for holidays brought her great joy because she loved welcoming guests into their home.

Kathleen loved listening to gospel classics sung by Elvis Presley, old school gospel, and vocalist George Michael.

Strength and Faith

Kathleen knew great pain, extreme sorrow, and tragic loss. She survived breast cancer twice. She seemed hardwired to overcome. Kathleen sacrificed for those she loved. Howbeit, she would often say, “If you can fix your problem with a dollar, you don’t have a problem.”

Kathleen’s faith sustained her until she was released from this side of heaven. At times, she questioned whether continuing her life on earth was worth it, but she never doubted God’s presence and love for her.

Cherished Memories

Kathleen was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Edward L. Thomas, Sr., and her grandson, Kenneth Lee Howard. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Morris Howard; sister-in-law, Ann Thomas; daughters, Tina Collins, Constance Howard, Lisa Howard, Desiree (Gerald) Robinson, and Shannon (Angelo) Burks; son, Delwin Howard; grandsons, Jason Howard (Nicole Littrel), VJ Collins II, Morris Howard, Dustin (Julianie) Howard, Robert Howard, William Jones, Marlon (Khara) Offit, and Darwyn White; granddaughters, Alexandria White, Lauren Collins, Tiffany Howard, and Mia Ofitt (Keanan Wesley); niece, Cynthia McWilliams; a host of great-grandchildren; and a host of warm-hearted relatives.

Her love, faith, resilience, and generosity will be remembered always.

Cards and acknowledgements can be mailed to:

603 E. Morris Street

Indianapolis, IN 46203

• In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
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• Pink-4-Ever's Nadine Whitlock Hayes Legacy Fund in honor of Kathleen Howard.